The stickleback, or Pungitius pungitius, is a little-known freshwater fish among sport fishermen in Quebec, but it plays an important role in the aquatic ecosystem. Often overlooked due to its modest size, the stickleback is primarily interesting to biologists and nature enthusiasts. This fish does not present a sporting challenge, but it is fascinating for its behavior and adaptation to varied environments. Found throughout the freshwater bodies of Quebec, it is particularly abundant in northern regions and wetlands where it constitutes an essential part of the food chain, serving as prey for many aquatic and avian predators.

The stickleback is a small elongated fish typically measuring between 4 and 8 cm. It is distinguished by its streamlined body and bony plates on the sides. Its color ranges from gray-green to brown, with a lighter belly. Patterns may include irregular dark spots. The mouth is small and slightly upturned, adapted for capturing small aquatic prey. The fins are transparent with visible spiny rays, particularly the dorsal fin which has several distinctive spines. The tail is slightly forked, promoting mobility in calm waters. The scales are reduced, giving the skin a smooth appearance. Males during breeding season display brighter colors, with bluish or greenish hues on the sides, while females remain duller.

The stickleback is widely distributed in the freshwater of Quebec, mainly found in northern regions such as Nord-du-Québec and Côte-Nord. It is also present in the lakes and rivers of the Laurentians and Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Its absence is notable in waters that are too warm or heavily polluted in southern Quebec. It prefers calm waters of marshes, ponds, and slow-flowing rivers, where it can find an abundance of food and shelter from predators.

The stickleback favors calm and shallow waters, often rich in aquatic vegetation. It is found in lakes, ponds, marshes, and slow-flowing streams. It prefers clear to murky waters, with an ideal temperature between 10 and 18 °C. Areas rich in aquatic plants are particularly attractive, as they provide both shelter and food. The stickleback tends to stay close to the shores, where it can hide among vegetation and debris, and generally avoids deep and fast waters.

The stickleback spawns in the spring, when the water temperature reaches about 10 °C. Males build nests using plant debris and attract females for spawning. Once the eggs are fertilized, the male guards the nest and protects the eggs until they hatch, which occurs after about a week. The fry grow quickly and reach sexual maturity in one to two years. The lifespan of the stickleback is relatively short, averaging three to four years.

Spring → Spawning → Hatching → Growth → Autumn → Preparation for winter → Winter → Relative dormancy

The stickleback is often gregarious, forming small groups to feed and protect themselves from predators. It is not very territorial, except during the breeding season when males vigorously defend their nests. This fish is rather discreet, moving slowly through the vegetation. It is sensitive to changes in light and prefers shaded environments. Sudden weather changes, like storms, may prompt the stickleback to hide more. It is generally active during the day, but may feed at any time when conditions allow.

The diet of the stickleback primarily consists of small aquatic invertebrates such as insect larvae, small crustaceans, and worms. Fry feed on zooplankton and microorganisms. As they grow, they diversify their diet to include slightly larger prey, but remain opportunistic. In autumn, with falling temperatures, their feeding activity decreases, and they focus on available prey in their immediate habitat.

In spring, the stickleback is very active, seeking to spawn and feed after winter. It is most easily observed in shallow, vegetated waters. In summer, its activity depends on water temperature; it prefers shaded areas rich in vegetation to avoid excessive heat. In autumn, it reduces its activity and prepares for winter by seeking shelter where it can protect itself from the cold. In winter, although less active, it remains in areas where water temperature is more constant, often under the ice in shallow zones.

For the stickleback, the choice of lures is less crucial than for other species, as it reacts more to size and movement. In clear waters, use natural-colored lures that mimic small invertebrates. In murky water, a bit of bright color can help attract attention. The lures should be small and light, suitable for the size of the stickleback's mouth.

To fish for the stickleback, an ultra-light rod of 1.5 to 2 m is ideal. Opt for a closed or open face reel, with a line of 2 to 4 lb. Use small hooks, sizes 10 to 14, and a fine leader to avoid scaring these small fish. The equipment should be sensitive enough to detect subtle bites.

Handle the stickleback carefully, as its small size makes it fragile. Use wet hands to minimize stress and injury. If you wish to take a photo, do it quickly and gently return the fish to the water. Ensure the fish is well revived before releasing it.

Sticklebacks are prey for many aquatic predators, such as pike and perch. They are also hunted by several species of aquatic birds, such as herons and kingfishers, which take advantage of their abundance in wetlands.

The stickleback is not a threatened species in Quebec. Its population is stable, thanks to its wide distribution and adaptability. However, it can be affected by pollution and habitat destruction. Regulations encourage catch-and-release to preserve its ecological role.